Method and system for developing a golf ball construction

ABSTRACT

A method and system determine a plurality of golf ball construction characteristics that constitute a golf ball construction. Each of the plurality of golf ball construction characteristics is determined on the basis of at least a measurement related to a golf shot parameter value obtained from samples of a specific golfer&#39;s golf swing. Accordingly, the golf ball construction may be custom-fit to golf swings of a specific golfer.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/512,583, entitled “Method AndSystem For Developing A Golf Ball Design,” and filed on Jul. 28, 2011,which application is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a method and system fordetermining customized golf ball constructions based upon golf shotparameter values.

2. Description of Related Art

With advances in golf ball construction, and increasing awareness andproliferation of golf equipment designed for particular levels of play,there has been increased interest in matching a golfer with anappropriate golf ball. While golf club fitting has become well known anda routine service of golf pro shops, golf ball fitting is a newerprocess, with much still being done for the most part by a golf pro orfitter posing a series of questions to the golfer, sometimes in the formof a golf ball fitting survey. The questions are generally about agolfer's average score, handicap, their goals for their game, and theirwishes for the oft times contradictory goals of control, distance,workability of the golf ball. Once the questions have been answered, thegolf pro or fitter will consider the necessary compromises and recommenda commercially-available golf ball for the player. In some golf ballfitting surveys, consideration may be given to anticipated playingconditions such as green speeds, firmness of the turf, altitude, climateand atmospheric conditions on a given course.

The question and answer process described above is purely subjective anddoes not take much measurable criteria into account. Recent developmentsin golf ball fitting have addressed some of the shortcomings of a purelysubjective question and answer process by having a golfer take swings ata ball while being monitored by launch monitors, video devices, andother measuring devices. The measurements generally taken may relate toclub head speed, ball speed, launch angle, attack angle, backspin,sidespin, and total distance.

Meanwhile, some golfers have been in a position to benefit from golfballs that have been custom-tailored to their particular skills as agolfer. For example, highly skilled golfers such as professionalathletes may either commission an expert or have an expert commissionedon their behalf to create a customized golf ball construction whereinthe golf ball construction is judged by the expert to be particularlysuited to the golfer's style of play. The process involved indetermining such custom golf ball constructions may have subjectivecomponents as well as objective components (i.e., components based uponthe sorts of measurable criteria described above). The process involvedin determining such custom golf ball constructions may also be heavilydependent upon the judgment of experts, whose time or services may bescarce, or expensive, or both.

Recent developments have made the manufacture of custom-designed golfballs more feasible. Accordingly, increasing numbers of golfers seek toextend their golf ball purchases beyond the range ofcommercially-available or otherwise off-the-shelf golf balls and intocustom-designed golf balls. However, the custom designing of golf ballsmay still be constrained by the limited availability of experts, theexpense of experts, or both.

There is a need in the art for a method and system for determiningcustomized golf ball constructions that addresses the shortcomings ofthe prior art discussed above. Specifically, there is a need for amethod and system to reduce or eliminate the need for expert judgment indetermining a custom golf ball construction. Similarly, there is a needto correlate various characteristics of a golf ball construction withmeasurable criteria to reduce or eliminate the need for the deepknowledge or experience of a golf pro or fitter in determining thecustom golf ball construction. Accordingly, there is a need to automatethe process of determining a custom golf ball construction, fromgathering data with respect to measurable criteria to using thatgathered data to determine in a custom-fit way the variouscharacteristics of a golf ball construction.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the invention provides a method for specifying a golfball construction to be executed by a computer. In one step, the methodincludes obtaining a plurality of golf shot parameter values. In anotherstep, the method includes calculating a range of values for each of aplurality of golf ball construction characteristics, the calculation ofeach range of values being based upon a corresponding value from theplurality of golf shot parameter values. In another step, the methodincludes combining the range of values for each of the plurality of golfball construction characteristics to delimit a range of golf ballconstruction. In another step, the method includes inputting a golf ballconstruction preference. In another step, the method includes reducingthe range of golf ball constructions based upon the golf ballconstruction preference.

In another aspect, the invention provides a golf ball design system fora computer. The system includes a database for storing a plurality ofgolf shot parameter values. The system also includes a first automatedmeasurement device for obtaining a first measurement related to a firstgolf shot parameter value. The system additionally includes a firstinput device for inputting the first measurement. The system furtherincludes a first determining device for determining a range of valuesfor a first golf ball construction characteristic based upon the firstmeasurement. The system also includes a second automated measurementdevice for obtaining a second measurement related to a second golf shotparameter value. The system additionally includes a second input devicefor inputting the second measurement. The system further includes asecond determining device for determining a range of values for a secondgolf ball construction characteristic based upon the second measurement.Moreover, the system includes a delimiting device for delimiting a rangeof golf ball constructions based upon the range of values for the firstgolf ball construction characteristic and the range of values for thesecond golf ball construction characteristic. The system furthermoreincludes an output device for outputting the range of golf ballconstructions.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a method for specifying arange of golf ball constructions to be executed by a computer. In onestep, the method includes obtaining a plurality of golf shot parametervalues. In another step, the method includes calculating a range ofvalues for a first golf ball construction characteristic based upon afirst value of the plurality of golf shot parameter values. In anotherstep, the method includes calculating a range of values for a secondgolf ball construction characteristic based upon a second value of theplurality of golf shot parameter values. In another step, the methodincludes combining at least the range of values for the first golf ballconstruction characteristic and the range of values for the second golfball construction characteristic to delimit the range of golf ballconstructions.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method for specifying agolf ball construction. In one step, the method includes gathering aplurality of golf shot parameter values. In another step, the methodincludes ascertaining a range of values for each of the plurality ofgolf ball construction characteristics, each range of values being basedupon a corresponding value from the plurality of golf shot parametervalues. In another step, the method includes specifying one or more golfball construction preferences. In another step, the method includesdetermining the golf ball construction based upon (a) the range ofvalues for each of the plurality of golf ball constructioncharacteristics and (b) the one or more golf ball constructionpreferences.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the invention willbe, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the following figures and detailed description. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, features, andadvantages be included within this description and this summary, bewithin the scope of the invention, and be protected by the followingclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention can be better understood with reference to the followingdrawings and description. The components in the figures are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustratingthe principles of the invention. Moreover, in the figures, likereference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout thedifferent views.

FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of three golf balls;

FIGS. 2A-2C are schematic cross-sectional views of the golf balls;

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of a method for specifying a range of golf ballconstructions;

FIG. 4 depicts an embodiment of a system for gathering golf shotparameter measurements;

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram for a method of determining a number of layersfor a golf ball construction;

FIGS. 6A-6C are schematic cross-sectional views of golf balls having avariety of numbers of layers;

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram for a method of determining a cover hardnessand a cover material;

FIGS. 8A-8C are schematic cross-sectional views of portions of golfballs having a variety of cover hardnesses and cover materials;

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram for a method of determining a number of dimplesin a cover for a golf ball construction;

FIGS. 10A-10C are schematic plan views of golf balls having a variety ofdimple counts;

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram for a method of determining a cover thicknessfor a golf ball construction;

FIGS. 12A-12C are schematic cross-sectional views of portions of golfballs having a variety of cover thicknesses;

FIG. 13 is an embodiment of a range of golf ball constructions;

FIG. 14 is an embodiment of the delimited range of golf ballconstructions of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram for a method of reducing a range of golf ballconstructions based upon a preference factor; and

FIG. 16 is an embodiment of the delimited range of golf ballconstructions of FIG. 13 reduced to a first golf ball construction underthe method of FIG. 15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In FIG. 1, a golfer 10 swings at three different golf balls in thecourse of making three different golf shots. Specifically, in threeseparate swings, golfer 10 swings at a first golf ball 100, a secondgolf ball 200, and a third golf ball 300. Through each swing, golfer 10attempts to place each of balls 100, 200, and 300 at a target spot 20 ata particular position on a golf course. As depicted, target spot 20 islocated at hole 30.

Each golf shot may in turn be affected by various golf shot parameters.Some golf shot parameters may be swing parameters, and may be influencedby the mechanics or specifics of a golfer's swing. Other golf shotparameters may be launch condition parameters, and may be influenced byboth the golfer's swing mechanics and by the construction of a golfball. Further golf shot parameters may be ball flight parameters, andmay be influenced both by the construction of the golf ball and byenvironmental conditions.

Some swing parameters may include a swing speed, a club path, and anattack angle. The swing speed may be a club head speed. The club pathmay include a position of the club head, a face angle, or a loft, whichmay be measured statically at a particular time (such as the moment ofimpact or contact between ball and club) and with respect to a static orreference position (such as measuring loft and lie angles with respectto a golf club shaft in the vertical plane, for example). The club pathmay also include a path or direction of the club head, as representedfor example by a multi-dimensional vector. The attack angle may be amulti-dimensional angle in a plane defined by a vertical referencedirection and an intended or target direction.

Launch condition parameters may include a launch angle, a ball speed orinitial velocity, a ball spin, an initial direction, or a ball spinslope. The ball spin may be either a backspin (i.e., a spin about ahorizontal axis) or a sidespin (i.e., an angle of backspin relative to ahorizontal plane). The initial direction may be an offline anglerelative to an intended target direction.

Ball flight parameters may include parameters related to ballconstruction, such as dimple count, dimple configuration, and moment ofinertia. Ball flight parameters may also include parameters related toenvironmental conditions, such as wind characteristics (i.e. wind speedand direction), elevation, relative humidity, and weather conditions(i.e. rain, sleet, hail, or snow).

Each of first golf ball 100, second golf ball 200, and third golf ball300 has been manufactured in accordance with a corresponding golf ballconstruction. Each of the corresponding golf ball constructions differsfrom the others, and each specifies a number of golf ball constructioncharacteristics. Pertinent golf ball construction characteristics mayinclude, for example: the number of pieces or layers within the golfball; the material (and hardness) of the golf ball's cover; the numberof dimples in the golf ball's cover; and the thickness of the golfball's cover. Other golf ball construction characteristics may include,for example: the shape, pattern, or other configuration of the dimplesin the golf ball's cover; aesthetic considerations such as color orindicia; and other aspects of construction affecting the physicalresponse of the golf ball to external stimulus. In turn, each golf ballconstruction characteristic specifies something about the nature of oneor more portions of golf balls 100, 200, and 300.

FIGS. 2A-2C are schematic cross-sectional views of golf balls 100, 200,and 300. As depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C, each of first golf ball 100, secondgolf ball 200, and third golf ball 300 includes a number of portions.First golf ball 100 includes cover portion 110 and inner portion 120,while second golf ball 200 includes cover portion 210 and inner portion220, and third golf ball 300 includes cover portion 310 and innerportion 320.

Each piece or layer of the construction used for cover portions 110,210, and 310 as well as for core portions 120, 220, and 320 may havephysical characteristics, such as a thickness, and may be formed fromany of a variety of materials. Each material used to form a piece orlayer of the construction may in turn have physical characteristics suchas density, and hardness, for example. Moreover, a physicalcharacteristic of the material within a particular piece or layer of theconstruction may vary within that piece or layer. The physicalcharacteristic of the material of the piece or layer may not be constantthroughout the piece or layer, but may be vary as a function of, forexample, a distance at each point within the material from the center ofthe golf ball. That is, the physical characteristic may be a gradientwithin the material.

Generally, for any arrangement of layers not specifically mentionedherein, any layer may be made of any material suitable for the purpose.Suitable known materials for use in a golf ball include thermosetmaterials, such as rubber, styrene butadiene, polybutadiene, isoprene,polyisoprene, certain types of polyurethanes, and trans-isoprene. Knownmaterials also include thermoplastics, such as ionomer resins,polyamides or polyesters, and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers.Suitable materials also include polyurea compositions, as well as othermaterials.

For example, a cover layer should be tough and resistant to scuffingwhile being soft enough for a golf club to impart spin easily to theball. Thus, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and thermoset polyurethaneare suitable for use in cover layers, as are known highly neutralizedpolymers and other ionomers. Thermoplastic polyurethane that is nototherwise scuff resistant can be treated to harden the surface, such asby a surface treatment or by other treatments before, during, and/orafter molding the layer. Suitable ionomers include members of theSurlyn® family of ionomeric polymers produced by E. I. DuPont de Nemoursand Company and members of the Iotek® family of products produced byExxonMobil Chemical Corporation. Additionally, other traditionalmaterials for covers may also be used, such as balata.

Returning to FIG. 1, golfer 10 swings in substantially the same way ineach of the three golf swings. That is, each of the three separateswings of golfer 10 is essentially the same as the others with respectto various golf shot parameters, and may be characterized as havingessentially the same swing mechanics. Pertinent golf shot parameters maybe swing parameters and launch condition parameters, and may include theswing speed, the ball speed, the ball spin, the ball spin slope, thelaunch angle, the attack angle, and the club path. Despite thesimilarities between the three swings, each of the differently-designedgolf balls 100, 200, and 300 responds differently to the swing appliedto it by golfer 10. For example, golf ball 100 has fallen short oftarget spot 20, while golf ball 200 has overshot and lies beyond targetspot 20. Only golf ball 300 has been sunk in hole 30 at target spot 20.

In FIG. 1, the differing responses of golf balls 100, 200, and 300 toessentially the same golf swing (i.e., to golf swings having essentiallythe same swing mechanics) is due to the differing golf ball constructioncharacteristics of golf balls 100, 200, and 300. In other words, golfballs 100, 200, and 300 respond differently given the same stimulus dueto different underlying golf ball construction characteristics.

A golfer may be able to acquire golf shot parameter values associatedwith golf swings that the golfer may personally make, or associated withrepresentative golf swings based upon a set of golf swings that thegolfer may personally make. The golfer may then wish to determineconstituent golf ball construction characteristics that will, whencombined, result in a golf ball construction most suitable to helpingthe golfer place golf balls closer to target spots of the golfer'schoosing. Such target spots may be holes on a golf course.Alternatively, such target spots may be more general in nature,corresponding with widely-applicable goals such as maximizing thedistance of a hit or maximizing the straightness of a hit.

In other words, in the context of FIGS. 2A-2C, a golfer may wish todetermine characteristics associated with the construction of variousdifferent portions of a golf ball in order to determine a desirable golfball construction. Therefore, for example, the golf ball constructioncharacteristics indicating (a) the material and hardness of a golfball's cover, or (b) the number of dimples in the golf ball's cover, or(c) the thickness of the golf ball's cover may indicate variousproperties of cover portions 110, 210, and 310 of golf balls 100, 200,and 300. Alternatively, the golf ball construction characteristicindicating the number of pieces or layers within the golf ball mayindicate how many pieces or layers exist in each of inner portions 120,220, and 320 of golf balls 100, 200, and 300.

One method of determining construction characteristics associated withvarious different portions of a golf ball includes determining a singleconstruction characteristic on the basis of a single golf shot parametervalue. Under extensions of this method, each of a plurality of golf ballconstruction characteristics may be made dependent upon one of aplurality of golf shot parameter values. For example, a first golf ballconstruction characteristic may be made dependent upon a first golf shotparameter value, a second golf ball construction characteristic may bemade dependent upon a second golf shot parameter value, and so on.Moreover, golf shot parameter values may be based upon more than asingle measurement related to golf shot parameters. That is, a golf shotparameter value may be a composite value representing a combination oftwo or more measurements related to golf shot parameters, or may bebased on a measurement related to a golf shot parameter and another datapoint, or may be based upon two or more measurements related to golfshot parameters.

In being made dependent upon a particular golf shot parameter value, agolf ball construction characteristic may have a single configuration orvalue, or may have any of a range of configurations or values. Whereeach of the constituent golf ball construction characteristics has asingle configuration or value, there may be a particular (i.e.,singular) golf ball construction that includes all the constituent golfball construction characteristics. On the other hand, where one or moreof the constituent golf ball construction characteristics has a range ofconfigurations or values, there may be a range of golf ballconstructions that includes all the constituent golf ball constructioncharacteristics. Where there is a range of golf ball constructions thatincludes all the constituent golf ball characteristics that have beenmade dependent upon golf shot parameter values, another factor may beused to preferentially select a golf ball construction from the range ofgolf ball constructions.

Method and System

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of a method 1000 for specifying a range of golfball constructions. In first step 1100, a first golf ball constructioncharacteristic is determined. More specifically, first step 1100determines a value or range of values for the number of pieces or layerswithin the golf ball. In second step 1200, a second golf ballconstruction characteristic is determined. More specifically, secondstep 1200 determines a list of materials of the golf ball's cover, incombination with a value or values of hardness for each material. Inthird step 1300, a third golf ball construction characteristic isdetermined. More specifically, third step 1300 determines a value orrange of values for the number of dimples in the golf ball's cover. Infourth step 1400, a fourth golf ball construction characteristic isdetermined. More specifically, fourth step 1400 determines a value orrange of values for the thickness of the golf ball's cover.

The various determinations of method 1000 are made using measurementsrelated to various golf shot parameters. FIG. 4 depicts an embodiment ofa system 2000 for gathering measurements related to various golf shotparameters. System 2000 includes measuring devices 2100, 2200, 2300, and2400. First measuring device 2100 is used to gather measurements relatedto a first golf shot parameter. More specifically, measurements of firstmeasuring device 2100 relate to a speed or velocity of the golf shot.Second measuring device 2200 is used to gather measurements related to asecond golf shot parameter. More particularly, measurements of secondmeasuring device 2200 relate to a spin of the golf ball, such as abackside spin. Third measuring device 2300 is used to gathermeasurements related to a third golf shot parameter. More particularly,measurements of third measuring device 2300 relate to the launch angleof a golf shot. Fourth measuring device 2400 is used to gathermeasurements related to a fourth golf shot parameter. More particularly,measurements of fourth measuring device 2400 relate to the attack angleof a golf shot.

Devices 2100, 2200, 2300, and 2400 may be any devices, such asphotographic devices, launch monitors, sound monitors, orposition-measuring devices, used to measure or otherwise captureinformation about various parameters associated with golf shots. Forexample, one or more of devices 2100, 2200, 2300, and 2400 may include acamera, a video camera, a light sensor, or another device measuringlight. Additionally, one or more of devices 2100, 2200, 2300, and 2400may include a radar device (e.g., doppler radar devices, devices thatgive information similar to doppler radar devices, and other radardevices), a sonar device, or another device measuring reflected energy.One or more of devices 2100, 2200, 2300, and 2400 may further include areceiving or transmitting device enabling intercommunication with acorresponding transmitting or receiving device, such as a device withina golf club or a golf ball. That is, in various configurations, devices2100, 2200, 2300, and 2400 may include a variety of measurementequipment, sensing equipment, and communication equipment to allowdevices 2100, 2200, 2300, and 2400 to obtain and communicatemeasurements related to golf shot parameters.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram for a method of determining a number of layersfor a golf ball construction. In the depicted embodiment, first step1100 includes a number of calculations based upon comparisons with agolf shot parameter value, such as a swing speed value, as well as anumber of range-establishing steps on the basis of the calculations. Theswing speed value is itself based at least upon a measurement related toa speed or a velocity of a golf shot, which may be gathered by one ormore measuring devices.

In first calculation 1101, the swing speed value is compared with a midlevel swing speed value. If the swing speed value exceeds the mid levelswing speed value, the swing speed is treated as a high level swingspeed. Accordingly, in first range establishment 1102, the range for thenumber of layers for the golf ball construction is set to a high range.If the swing speed value does not exceed the mid level swing speedvalue, then in second calculation 1103 the swing speed value is comparedwith a low level swing speed value. If the swing speed value exceeds thelow level swing speed value, the swing speed is treated as a mid levelswing speed. Accordingly, in second range establishment 1104, the rangefor the number of layers for the golf ball construction is set to a midrange. If the swing speed value does not exceed the low level swingspeed value, the swing speed is treated as a low level swing speed.Accordingly, in third range establishment 1106, the range for the numberof layers for the golf ball construction is set to a low range.

FIGS. 6A-6C are schematic cross-sectional views of golf balls having avariety of numbers of layers. Golf ball 1150 incorporates a four-pieceor four-layer construction and includes first layer 1151, second layer1152, third layer 1153, and fourth layer 1154. Golf ball 1160incorporates a three-piece or three-layer construction and includesfirst layer 1161, second layer 1162, and third layer 1163. Golf ball1170 incorporates a two-piece or two-layer construction and includesfirst layer 1171 and second layer 1172.

In some embodiments of first step 1100, the mid level swing speed valuemay be approximately 100 MPH (miles per hour), and the low level swingspeed value may be approximately 90 MPH. In addition, the high range ofthe number of layers may be set to include four layers and three layers,the mid range of the number of layers may be set to include four layers,three layers, and two layers, and the low range of the number of layersmay be set to include three layers and two layers.

Accordingly, in first step 1100, the range for the number of layers maybe essentially set to include (a) four layers and three layers, such asin golf balls 1150 and 1160, for swing speed values above 100 MPH; (b)four layers, three layers, and two layers, such as in golf balls 1150,1160, and 1170, for swing speed values between 100 MPH and 90 MPH; or(c) three layers and two layers, such as in golf balls 1160 and 1170,for swing speed values below 90 MPH.

Other embodiments of first step 1100 may include calculations based uponcomparisons with respect to a different golf shot parameter value. Forexample, first step 1100 may include calculations based upon comparisonswith a ball compression value, which may itself be based at least upon ameasurement related to a ball compression gathered by one or moremeasuring devices. In such an embodiment, if the ball compression valuedoes not exceed 2.7 in first calculation 1101, the number of layers forthe golf ball construction may be set to the high range (i.e., may beset to include three layers or four layers). Alternatively, if the ballcompression value does not exceed 3.3 in second calculation 1103, thenumber of layers for the golf ball construction may be set to a midrange (i.e., may be set to include two layers, three layers, or fourlayers). Otherwise, if the ball compression value is at least 3.3, thenumber of layers for the golf ball construction may be set to a lowrange (i.e., may be set to include two layers or three layers).

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram for a method of determining a material andhardness of a golf ball cover for a golf ball construction. In thedepicted embodiment, second step 1200 includes a number of calculationsbased upon comparisons with a golf shot parameter value, such as a ballspin value, as well as a number of range-establishing steps on the basisof the calculations. The ball spin value is itself based at least upon ameasurement related to a spin of a golf ball, which may be gathered byone or more measuring devices.

In first calculation 1201, the ball spin value is compared with a midlevel ball spin value. If the ball spin value exceeds the mid level ballspin value, the ball spin is treated as a high level ball spin.Accordingly, in first range establishment 1202, the list of materials ofthe golf ball's cover is set to a high range. If the ball spin valuedoes not exceed the mid level ball spin value, then in secondcalculation 1203 the ball spin value is compared with a low level ballspin value. If the ball spin value exceeds the low level ball spinvalue, the ball spin is treated as a mid level ball spin. Accordingly,in second range establishment 1204, the list of materials of the golfball's cover is set to a mid range. If the ball spin value does notexceed the low level ball spin value, the ball spin is treated as a lowlevel ball spin. Accordingly, in third range establishment 1206, thelist of materials of the golf ball's cover is set to a low range.

FIGS. 8A-8C are schematic cross-sectional views of portions of golfballs having a variety of cover hardnesses and cover materials. Golfball 1250 incorporates cover layer 1251 and inner portion 1252. Coverlayer 1251 may be formed of a material having a first hardness. Golfball 1260 incorporates cover layer 1261 and inner portion 1262. Coverlayer 1261 may be formed of a material having a second hardness lessthan the first hardness. Golf ball 1270 incorporates cover layer 1271and inner portion 1272. Cover layer 1271 may be formed of a materialhaving a third hardness less than second hardness.

In some embodiments of second step 1200, the mid level ball spin valuemay be approximately 3300 RPM (revolutions per minute), and the lowlevel ball spin value may be approximately 2800 RPM. In addition, thehigh range of the list of materials of the golf ball's cover may be aset including urethane having a Shore-D hardness of approximately 60(i.e., a Type D Shore Durometer hardness of approximately 60) and anionomer or ionomer blend having a Shore-D hardness of approximately 70,the mid range may be a set including urethane having a Shore-D hardnessof approximately 50 and an ionomer or ionomer blend having a Shore-Dhardness of approximately 60, and the low range may be a set includingurethane having a Shore-D hardness of approximately 40 and an ionomer orionomer blend having a Shore-D hardness of approximately 50.

Accordingly, in second step 1200, the list of materials of the golfball's cover may be a set including (a) material of a first hardness,like the hardness of cover layer 1251 (for example, a 60 Shore-Dhardness urethane or a 70 Shore-D hardness ionomer or ionomer blend),for ball spin values above 3300 RPM; (b) material of a second hardness,like the hardness of cover layer 1261 (for example, a 50 Shore-Dhardness urethane or a 60 Shore-D hardness ionomer or ionomer blend),for ball spin values between 3300 RPM and 2800 RPM; or (c) material of athird hardness, like the hardness of cover layer 1271 (for example, a 40Shore-D hardness urethane or a 50 Shore-D hardness ionomer or ionomerblend), for ball spin values below 2800 RPM.

In some embodiments, a list of materials of the golf ball's cover mayalternatively, or additionally, be based upon comparisons with anothergolf shot parameter value, such as a ball spin slope value. That is, afirst measurement related to a spin of a golf ball may be obtained withrespect to a first type of club used for longer-distance golf shots (forexample, a driver) and a second measurement related to a spin of a golfball may be obtained with respect to a second type of club used forshorter-distance golf shots (for example, a wedge). The ball spin slopeis the ratio of the second measurement to the first measurement.

In such alternative embodiments, ball spin slope values based uponmeasurements related to ball speed slope may be compared to various ballspin slope values to influence the list of materials of the golf ball'scover. For example, the list of materials of the golf ball's cover maybe adjusted to target a minimum ball spin slope of 2 (i.e., to target aball spin rate with respect to wedges that is at least 2 times the ballspin rate with respect to drivers). Additionally, this adjustment mayattempt to minimize impact upon the ball spin rate with respect to thetype of club for which a golfer experiences greater performance, andimpact instead the ball spin rate with respect to the type of club forwhich a golfer experiences lesser performance. For example, if a golferexperiences better performance with a driver than with a wedge, the listof materials of the golf ball's cover might be adjusted to minimizeimpact upon ball spin related to drivers in favor of impacting ball spinrelated to wedges.

Furthermore, in various embodiments, the material of any piece or layerfor a golf ball construction may be determined in a manner similar tothe method depicted in FIG. 7. That is, for any piece or layer for agolf ball construction, comparisons may be made between a golf shotparameter value corresponding with that piece or layer of golf ballconstruction and mid-level and low-level values of that golf shotparameter in order to establish a list of materials (and hardnesses ofeach material) for use in that particular piece or layer.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram for a method of determining a number of dimplesin a cover for a golf ball construction. In the depicted embodiment,third step 1300 includes a number of calculations based upon comparisonswith a golf shot parameter value, such as a launch angle value, as wellas a number of range-establishing steps on the basis of thecalculations. The launch angle value is itself based at least upon ameasurement related to a launch angle, which may be gathered by one ormore measuring devices.

In first calculation 1301, the launch angle value is compared with a midlevel launch angle value. If the launch angle value exceeds the midlevel launch angle value, the launch angle is treated as a high levellaunch angle. Accordingly, in first range establishment 1302, the rangefor the number of dimples in the golf ball's cover is set to a highrange. If the launch angle value does not exceed the mid level launchangle value, then in second calculation 1303 the launch angle value iscompared with a low level launch angle value. If the launch angle valueexceeds the low level launch angle value, the launch angle is treated asa mid level launch angle. Accordingly, in second range establishment1304, the range for the number of dimples in the golf ball's cover isset to a mid range. If the launch angle value does not exceed the lowlevel launch angle value, the launch angle is treated as a low levellaunch angle. Accordingly, in third range establishment 1306, the rangefor the number of dimples in the golf ball's cover is set to a lowrange.

FIGS. 10A-10C are schematic plan views of golf balls having a variety ofdimple counts. Golf ball 1350 incorporates cover layer 1351 havingdimples 1355. Cover layer 1351 may have a first number of dimples 1355.Golf ball 1360 incorporates cover layer 1361 having dimples 1365. Coverlayer 1361 may have a second number of dimples 1365 less than the firstnumber of dimples 1355. Golf ball 1370 incorporates cover layer 1371having dimples 1375. Cover layer 1371 may have a third number of dimples1375 less than the second number of dimples 1365.

In some embodiments of third step 1300, the mid level launch angle valuemay be approximately 13 degrees, and the low level launch angle valuemay be approximately 10 degrees. In addition, the high range of thenumber of dimples in the golf ball's cover may be set to 400 or more,the mid range may be set to between 330 and 400, and the low range maybe set to between 270 and 360.

Accordingly, in third step 1300, the range for the number of dimples inthe golf ball's cover may be essentially set to include (a) a firstnumber (for example, 400 or more), like the number of dimples 1355 ofcover layer 1351, for launch angle values above 13 degrees; (b) a secondnumber (for example, between 330 and 400), like the number of dimples1365 of cover layer 1361, for launch angle values between 13 degrees and10 degrees; or (c) a third number (for example, between 270 and 360),like the number of dimples 1375 of cover layer 1371, for launch anglevalues below 10 degrees.

In some embodiments, a number of dimples in a golf ball's cover mayalternatively, or additionally, be based upon comparisons with anothergolf shot parameter value, such as a composite value combining launchangle and spin rate. For example, a measurement related to launch anglemay be multiplied by a measurement related to spin rate to determine acomposite value combining launch angle and spin rate.

In such alternative embodiments, composite values combining launch angleand spin rate may be compared to various values to influence the numberof dimples in a golf ball's cover. For example, a low level compositevalue combining launch angle and spin rate may be set to approximately24,000, and a mid level composite value combining launch angle and spinrate may be set to approximately 30,800. Accordingly, the range for thenumber of dimples in the golf ball's cover may essentially be set toinclude (a) a first number (for example, 400 or more) for compositevalue combining launch angle and spin rate above 30,800; (b) a secondnumber (for example, between 330 and 400) for composite value combininglaunch angle and spin rate between 24,000 and 30,800; and (c) a thirdnumber (for example, between 270 and 360) for composite value combininglaunch angle and spin rate below 24,000.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram for a method of determining a cover thicknessfor a golf ball construction. In the depicted embodiment, third step1400 includes a number of calculations based upon comparisons with agolf shot parameter value, such as an attack angle value, as well as anumber of range-establishing steps on the basis of the calculations. Theattack angle value is itself based at least upon a measurement relatedto an attack angle of a golf shot, which may be gathered by one or moremeasuring devices.

In first calculation 1401, the attack angle value is compared with a midlevel attack angle value. If the attack angle value exceeds the midlevel attack angle value, the attack angle is treated as a high levelattack angle (which may include positive, upward, high, and shallowattack angles). Accordingly, in first range establishment 1402, therange for the thickness of the golf ball's cover is set to a high range.If the attack angle value does not exceed the mid level attack anglevalue, then in second calculation 1403 the attack angle value iscompared with a low level attack angle value. If the attack angle valueexceeds the low level attack angle value, the attack angle is treated asa mid level attack angle (which may include neutral, flat, and shallowattack angles). Accordingly, in second range establishment 1404, therange for the thickness of the golf ball's cover is set to a mid range.If the attack angle value does not exceed the low level attack anglevalue, the attack angle is treated as a low level attack angle (whichmay include negative or steep attack angles). Accordingly, in thirdrange establishment 1406, the range for the thickness of the golf ball'scover is set to a low range.

FIGS. 12A-12C are schematic cross-sectional views of portions of golfballs having a variety of cover thicknesses. Golf ball 1450 incorporatescover layer 1451 and inner portion 1452. Cover layer 1451 may have afirst thickness. Golf ball 1460 incorporates cover layer 1461 and innerportion 1462. Cover layer 1461 may have a second thickness greater thanthe first thickness. Golf ball 1470 incorporates cover layer 1471 andinner portion 1472. Cover layer 1471 may have a third thickness greaterthan the second thickness.

Accordingly, in fourth step 1400, the range for the thickness of thegolf ball's cover may be essentially set to include (a) a firstthickness, like the thickness of cover layer 1451, for high level attackangles; (b) a second thickness, like the thickness of cover layer 1461,for mid level attack angles; or (c) a third thickness, like thethickness of cover layer 1471, for low level attack angles.Alternatively, in fourth step 1400, the ranges of thickness for the golfball's cover may be otherwise associated with attack angles. Forexample, the range for the thickness of the golf ball's cover may beessentially set to include (a) a first thickness, like the thickness ofcover layer 1471, for high level attack angles; (b) a second thickness,like the thickness of cover layer 1461, for mid level attack angles; or(c) a third thickness, like the thickness of cover layer 1451, for lowlevel attack angles.

In some embodiments of third step 1400, which may correspond withmeasurements obtained when the golf club is a driver, the mid levelattack angle value may be about 4.0 degrees, and the low level attackangle value may be about 0.0 degrees. In other embodiments of third step1400, which may correspond with measurements obtained when the golf clubis a 7 iron, the mid level attack angle value may be about −1.0 degree,and the low level attack angle value may be about −3.5 degrees. Inaddition, the high range of the thickness for the golf ball's cover maybe set to include about 0.6 mm to 0.8 mm, the mid range of the thicknessfor the golf ball's cover may be set to include about 0.8 mm to 1.0, andthe low range of the thickness for the golf ball's cover may be set toinclude about 1.0 mm to 2.3 mm.

Accordingly, in various steps, method 1000 may obtain a plurality ofmeasurements related to golf shot parameters and calculate a range ofvalues for each of a plurality of golf ball constructioncharacteristics. The calculation of each range of values may be basedupon a golf shot parameter value which is itself based at least upon acorresponding measurement from the obtained plurality of measurementsrelated to golf shot parameters. More particularly, in first step 1100,method 1000 may calculate a range of values for a first golf ballconstruction characteristic based upon a first golf shot parameter valueof the plurality of golf shot parameter values. Similarly, in secondstep 1200, method 1000 may calculate a range of values for a second golfball construction characteristic based upon a second golf shot parametervalue of the plurality of golf shot parameter values. Proceeding, inthird step 1300, method 1000 may calculate a range of values for a thirdgolf ball construction characteristic based upon a third golf shotparameter value of the plurality of golf shot parameter values.Subsequently, in fourth step 1400, method 1000 may calculate a range ofvalues for a fourth golf ball construction characteristic based upon afourth golf shot parameter value of the plurality of golf shot parametervalues.

Any of the plurality of golf shot parameter values used by method 1000in its calculations may be obtained by system 2000. For example, a firstgolf shot parameter value may be based at least upon a measurementgathered by first measuring device 2100, a second golf shot parametervalue may be based at least upon a measurement gathered by secondmeasuring device 2200, a third golf shot parameter value may be based atleast upon a measurement gathered by third measuring device 2300, or afourth golf shot parameter value may be based at least upon ameasurement gathered by fourth device measuring 2400.

After obtaining the plurality of golf shot parameter values, and afterhaving calculated ranges of values for each of a plurality of golf ballconstruction characteristics based upon the plurality of golf shotparameter values, the combination of the ranges of values for each ofthe plurality of golf ball construction characteristics may delimit arange of golf ball constructions. Where the range for each of theconstituent golf ball construction characteristics includes a singleconfiguration or value, the delimited range of golf ball constructionsmay include a single golf ball construction. Alternatively, where one ormore of the ranges for each of the constituent golf ball constructioncharacteristics includes more than one configuration or value, thedelimited range of golf ball constructions may include more than asingle golf ball construction.

In a simplified example, FIG. 13 is an embodiment of a range of golfball constructions. As depicted, range of golf ball constructions 1500has two constituent golf ball construction characteristics. With respectto the first golf ball construction characteristic, each of first range1512, second range 1514, and third range 1516 includes more than oneconfiguration or value, depicted as columns in FIG. 13. That is, each ofranges 1512, 1514, and 1516 includes a range of configurations orvalues. In contrast, with respect to the second golf ball constructioncharacteristic, each of first range 1522, second range 1524, and thirdrange 1526 does not include more than one configuration or value,depicted as rows in FIG. 13. That is, each of ranges 1522, 1524, and1526 includes a single configuration or value.

Under a method for specifying a range of golf ball constructions similarto method 1000, various golf shot parameter values of a plurality ofgolf shot parameter values may be used to calculate ranges of values foreach of the two golf ball construction characteristics of range of golfball constructions 1500. For example, a first step of the method maycalculate second range 1514 as an appropriate range for the first golfball construction characteristic based upon a first golf shot parametervalue. Similarly, a second step of the method may calculate third range1526 as an appropriate range for the second golf ball constructioncharacteristic based upon a second golf shot parameter value.Subsequently, the combination of second range 1514 for the first golfball construction characteristic and third range 1526 for the secondgolf ball construction characteristic may be used to determine delimitedrange of golf ball constructions 1550.

FIG. 14 is an embodiment of the delimited range of golf ballconstructions of FIG. 13. Delimited range 1550 includes first delimitedgolf ball construction 1550 a, second delimited golf ball construction1550 b, and third delimited golf ball construction 1550 c. That is,delimited range of golf ball constructions 1550 comprises the first andsecond golf ball construction characteristics that have been determinedon the basis of the first and second golf shot parameter values.

Where there is such a range of golf ball constructions, another factormay be used to preferentially select a single golf ball constructionfrom the range of golf ball constructions. Preference factors forselecting single golf ball constructions may include, for example, afactor based upon cost, or a factor based upon durability, or a factorbased upon feel.

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram for a method 1600 of reducing a range of golfball constructions based upon a preference factor. In first step 1602, apreference factor is established, as well as a criterion for thepreference factor. For example, the established preference factor mightbe cost, and the criteria might be that the cost of the golf ballconstruction is minimized. In second step 1604, a value for thepreference factor is established for each golf ball construction of thedelimited range of golf ball constructions. For example, a cost may beestablished for each golf ball construction of a delimited range of golfball constructions. In third step 1606, the golf ball constructionhaving the minimum cost among all the golf ball constructions in thedelimited range of golf ball constructions is determined.

Returning to the simplified example of FIGS. 13 and 14, FIG. 16 is anembodiment of the delimited range of golf ball constructions of FIG. 13reduced to a first golf ball construction under the method depicted inFIG. 15. In first step 1602, cost is established as a preference factor,and the minimization of the cost of the golf ball construction isestablished as the criteria. In second step 1604, values are assignedfor the costs of first delimited golf ball construction 1550 a, seconddelimited golf ball construction 1550 b, and third delimited golf ballconstruction 1550 c. In third step 1606, third delimited golf ballconstruction 1550 c is determined to have the minimum cost of golf ballconstructions 1550 a, 1550 b, and 1550 c. Accordingly, delimited range1550 of golf ball constructions is reduced to golf ball construction1650 (i.e., golf ball construction 1550 c).

Automation

In some embodiments, method 1000 may be executed by a computer, ormethod 1000 and system 2000 may be included in a golf ball design systemfor a computer. Such embodiments may include a database for storing aplurality of golf shot parameter values. Additionally, in suchembodiments, one or more of first measuring device 2100, secondmeasuring device 2200, third measuring device 2300, or fourth measuringdevice 2400 may be automated. That is, any of devices 2100, 2200, 2300,or 2400 may automatically obtain one or more golf shot parameter values.Such measuring devices may include photographic devices, launchmonitors, sound monitors, position-measuring devices, cameras, videocameras, light sensors, other light-measuring devices, radar devices(e.g., doppler radar devices, devices that give information similar todoppler radar devices, and other radar devices), sonar devices, otherdevices measuring reflected energy, a receiving device, or atransmitting device.

Such embodiments may also include one or more inputting devices forinputting the golf shot parameter values into the computer. For example,some embodiments may include one inputting device for each of devices2100, 2200, 2300, and 2400. Alternatively, in other embodiments, asingle inputting device may serve to input golf shot parameter valuesfrom more than one of devices 2100, 2200, 2300, and 2400 into thecomputer. That is, the inputting device for more than one of devices2100, 2200, 2300, and 2400 may be the same device. Such inputtingdevices may include cables, wires, other electrical connections, ordevices implementing any wired or wireless communication protocol.

Such embodiments may additionally include devices for determining therange of values for each of a plurality of golf ball constructioncharacteristics based upon the golf shot parameter values. For example,a first determining device may determine a range of values for a firstgolf ball construction characteristic based upon the first golf shotparameter value, a second determining device may determine a range ofvalues for a second golf ball construction characteristic based upon thesecond golf shot parameter value, and so on. Alternatively, in otherembodiments, a single determining device may serve to determine a rangeof values for more than one golf ball construction characteristic. Suchdetermining devices may include CPU's, GPU's, or any otherdata-processing or computing device.

Such embodiments may also include a delimiting device for delimiting arange of golf ball construction based upon ranges of values for each ofthe golf ball construction characteristics, like a CPU, GPU, or anyother data-processing or computing device. Such embodiments may furtherinclude an input device for inputting one or more golf ball constructionpreferences, like a keyboard, mouse, microphone, or other input device,and may further include a reducing device for reducing the delimitedrange of golf ball constructions based upon the inputted golf ballconstruction preference or preferences, like a CPU, GPU, or any otherdata-processing or computing device. Finally, such embodiments mayinclude an output device for outputting a delimited range of golf ballconstructions or a reduced range of golf ball constructions, like aprinter, monitor, hard disk, or any other output or storage device.

In various embodiments, system 2000 may be or may include portions of aball fitting system as disclosed in copending and commonly owned U.S.Pat. No. 8,758,169, currently U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/498,364, entitled “Method and System for Golf Ball Fitting Analysis,”and filed on Jul. 7, 2009, which is herein incorporated by reference.System 200 may include a computer, which may include, but is not limitedto: a desktop computer, portable computer, tablet computer, smartphone,and/or any other device including a processor and/or a display that isconfigured to allow a user to view and/or interact with information. Thecomputer may, in turn, include a CPU, a memory, a display, and a datatransfer connection.

Further Embodiments

As depicted in FIGS. 3-16, method 1000 and system 2000 may be used firstto delimit a range of golf ball constructions, then to reduce thedelimited range of golf ball constructions to a single golf ballconstruction. In other embodiments, method 1000 may further comprise astep of placing an order for the manufacture of the single golf ballconstruction. Alternatively, method 1000 may further comprise a step ofmanufacturing a golf ball construction based upon the single golf ballconstruction. In still further embodiments, method 1000 may furthercomprise a step of receiving a golf ball manufactured based upon thefirst golf ball construction.

As depicted in FIGS. 3-16, method 1000 includes four steps to determinefour golf ball construction characteristics. Similarly, system 2000includes four devices to obtain four golf shot parameter values.However, in other embodiments, method 1000 may include a greater numberof steps to determine a greater number of golf ball constructioncharacteristics, or may include fewer steps to determine fewer golf ballconstruction characteristics. Similarly, in other embodiments, system1000 may include a greater number of devices to obtain a greater numberof golf shot parameter values, or may include fewer devices to obtainfewer golf shot parameter values.

As depicted in FIGS. 3-16, method 1000 includes first step 1000 todetermine a number of layers, followed by second step 1200 to determinea cover material, followed by third step 1300 to determine a dimplecount, followed by fourth step 1400 to determine a cover thickness.However, in other embodiments, the steps of method 1000 may be performedin any other order. In addition, any of the steps of method 1000 may beperformed at the same time as any of the other steps.

As depicted in FIGS. 3-12, first step 1100 determines a range for anumber of layers on the basis of swing speed, second step 1200determines a list of materials for the golf ball's cover on the basis ofball spin, third step 1300 determines a range for the number of dimplesin a golf ball's cover on the basis of launch angle, and fourth step1400 determines a range for the thickness of a golf ball's cover on thebasis of attack angle. In other embodiments, any of the golf ballconstruction characteristics of a plurality of golf ball constructioncharacteristics constituting a golf ball construction or range of golfball constructions may be based on measurements related to any golf shotparameter value.

As depicted in FIG. 4, each of first measuring device 2100, secondmeasuring device 2200, third measuring device 2300, and fourth measuringdevice 2400 obtains measurements related to one golf shot parametervalue. However, in other embodiments, any of devices 2100, 2200, 2300,or 2400 may obtain measurements related to more than one golf shotparameter value. For example, in some embodiments, a single device mayobtain all golf shot parameter values used in method 1000.

While various embodiments of the invention have been described, thedescription is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and itwill be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many moreembodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scopeof the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restrictedexcept in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also,various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of theattached claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: receiving at a device aplurality of golf shot parameter values from a sensor in communicationwith the device; determining using the device a range of values for eachof a plurality of golf ball construction characteristics, thecalculation of each range of values being based upon a correspondingvalue from the plurality of golf shot parameter values; combining usingthe device the range of values for each of the plurality of golf ballconstruction characteristics to delimit a range of golf ballconstructions; receiving at the device a golf ball constructionpreference; and reducing using the device the range of golf ballconstructions based upon the golf ball construction preference andoutputting using the device at least one golf ball construction basedupon the golf ball construction preference.
 2. The method of claim 1,further comprising obtaining the plurality of golf shot parameter valuesusing the sensor.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein obtaining theplurality of golf shot parameter values includes sensing using thesensor at least one of a swing parameter and a launch conditionparameter of a golf swing.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein sensing theswing parameter includes sensing by the sensor at least one of a swingspeed, a club path, and an attack angle.
 5. The method of claim 3,wherein sensing the launch condition parameter includes sensing by thesensor at least one of a launch angle, a ball speed, a ball spin, aninitial ball direction, and a ball spin slope.
 6. The method of claim 1,wherein receiving the plurality of golf shot parameter values includesreceiving at least one of a swing speed, a ball compression, a ballspeed or velocity, a ball spin rate, an attack angle, a club path, and alaunch angle.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the range ofvalues for each of the plurality of golf ball constructioncharacteristics includes determining at least one of a number of layers,a cover hardness, a cover material, and a dimple count.
 8. The method ofclaim 1, wherein determining the range of values for each of theplurality of golf ball construction characteristics includes determininga range of a number of layers based on one of a swing speed, a ballcompression, and a ball speed or velocity.
 9. The method of claim 1,wherein determining the range of values for each of the plurality ofgolf ball construction characteristics includes determining a range ofat least one of a cover hardness and a cover material based on at leastone of a ball spin rate and a ball spin rate slope.
 10. The method ofclaim 1, wherein determining the range of values for each of theplurality of golf ball construction characteristics includes determininga range of a dimple count based on at least one of a launch angle and aspin rate.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the golf ballconstruction preference includes receiving information regardingpreferences based on at least one of cost, durability, sound, and feel.12. The method of claim 1, wherein reducing the range of golf ballconstructions includes reducing using the device the range of golf ballconstructions to a first golf ball construction.
 13. The method of claim12, further comprising placing an order for the manufacture of a golfball based on the first golf ball construction.
 14. The method of claim12, further comprising manufacturing a golf ball based on the first golfball construction.
 15. A golf ball design system including a computercomprising: a computer database for storing a plurality of golf shotparameter values; a first automated measurement device for obtaining afirst measurement related to a first golf shot parameter value; a firstinput device for inputting the first measurement into the computer; afirst computer determining device for determining a range of values fora first golf ball construction characteristic based upon the firstmeasurement; a second automated measurement device for obtaining asecond measurement related to a second golf shot parameter value; asecond input device for inputting the second measurement into thecomputer; a second computer determining device for determining a rangeof values for a second golf ball construction characteristic based uponthe second measurement; a computer delimiting device for delimiting arange of golf ball constructions based upon the range of values for thefirst golf ball construction characteristic and the range of values forthe second golf ball construction characteristic; and an output devicefor outputting from the computer the range of golf ball constructions.16. The system of claim 15, wherein one of the first automatedmeasurement device and the second automated measurement device includesone of a camera, a launch monitor, and a sound monitor.
 17. The systemof claim 15, further including an input device for inputting one or moregolf ball construction preferences.
 18. The system of claim 17, furtherincluding a reducing device for reducing the range of golf ballconstructions based upon the one or more golf ball constructionpreferences.
 19. A method for specifying a golf ball construction to beexecuted by a device, the method comprising the steps of: receiving atthe device a plurality of golf shot parameter values; determining usingthe device a range of values for each of a plurality of golf ballconstruction characteristics, each range of values being based upon acorresponding value from the plurality of golf shot parameter values;receiving at the device at least one golf ball construction preference;determining using the device the golf ball construction based on (a) therange of values for each of the plurality of golf ball constructioncharacteristics and (b) the at least one golf ball constructionpreference, and manufacturing a golf ball having the golf ballconstruction.